Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Sep 29: Keshav Prasad, a Bengaluru-based wellness consultant, has completed an ambitious 25,000-km road journey across 27 countries in 85 days, driving from Bengaluru to London and back in his SUV.

The journey began on June 5 and ended on August 25. For Prasad, however, the expedition was about more than covering thousands of kilometres. His family and friends told him he appeared calmer and more mature after returning. He noticed the change too.

Weeks spent on unfamiliar roads taught him to accept uncertainty, as plans could change because of traffic, weather, road conditions or circumstances beyond his control.

Learning to let go

“It will give you immense patience. Sometimes, you can’t reach your destination as planned. Anything can happen along the way and your mind automatically starts adjusting to that situation,” he says.

That, perhaps, was the most lasting lesson from the expedition.

“You will become very calm and ready to accept any kind of unfortunate things in your life,” he adds.

Driving through 27 countries, stopping along the way and dealing with everyday situations also gave Prasad a glimpse into life across different places.

Some of his strongest memories came from the people he encountered along the route. Although the journey began with several companions, they eventually parted ways, leaving Prasad to continue towards London.

In China, when his car broke down at night, a truck driver guided him to a garage. In Turkey, a mechanic who carried out minor repairs refused payment, calling it a gift from the country.

In Uzbekistan, when Prasad and his companions were out in temperatures of 45-48°C, a restaurant owner invited them in, offered them food and refused payment.

“Maybe we were lucky or everyone is just kind,” he says.

Rs 25 lac and plenty of preparation

Taking a personal vehicle across continents, however, came at a considerable cost. Prasad spent around Rs 25 lac on the entire trip, including accommodation, fuel and other expenses.

He describes the journey as comfortable rather than luxurious, alternating between three- and four-star hotels and hostels, while carrying food from India.

Fuel was among the biggest expenses, with prices crossing Rs 1,200 a litre in most countries he visited, except India and Kazakhstan.

His SUV remained dependable throughout. The vehicle was serviced a week before departure and accompanied by essential spares. Prasad also underwent basic training to handle minor maintenance issues.

“Basics like fixing a puncture are something you have to learn. We had one puncture on the way, so I fixed it, filling the tyre with the air pump we were carrying and continued,” he says.

Fitness, finances and family support

For those considering a similar expedition, Prasad says choosing the right vehicle is only part of the preparation.

During the three-month journey, he encountered very low temperatures as well as high-altitude regions with low oxygen levels.

“Three things are important. First, you have to be physically fit. Second, you need to be financially comfortable and have a buffer for unexpected expenses. Third, you need the support of your family and others around you,” he says.

Prasad drove primarily during daylight, took breaks every two hours and planned overnight stays around secure parking.

The journey, he says, required constant awareness rather than bravado.

He also believes one of the biggest misconceptions about such a journey is that it amounts to an extended holiday.

“You should be very passionate about driving. After a few days, you shouldn’t get bored or start thinking, ‘What am I doing here?’. You need that passion to reach the goal and complete the journey. It’s not a leisure trip, it’s an expedition,” he says.

The 25,000-km expedition has left Prasad with a different perspective on life and a realisation that sometimes the longest route to a destination can leave you with the most to bring back home.

Before you hit the long road

Plan for unexpected expenses and emergencies. Learn basic maintenance and carry essential spares. Drive only during daylight. Stop every two hours. Make secure overnight parking a priority. Prepare physically for long hours on the road. Plan the paperwork at least one year ahead.